You've found work, made friends, perhaps enrolled your children in school, and started to feel at home. But as your CUAET work permit approaches its expiry date, you're facing an important question: what happens next?

The good news is that you have options. Whether you want to extend your temporary status or pursue permanent residency, there are pathways available to help you stay in Canada legally.

Act Before March 31, 2026

The Canadian government has provided a pathway for eligible CUAET holders to extend their work permits, but applications must be submitted before March 31, 2026. This is a firm deadline. Missing it could mean losing your legal status in Canada.

What you need to do:

• Check your current work permit expiry date

• Gather required documents

• Submit your application well before March 31, 2026

• Maintain valid status while your extension is being processed

Option 1: Extend Your CUAET Work Permit

If you're not yet ready to transition to permanent residency, extending your CUAET work permit allows you to continue working for any employer in Canada while you explore longer-term solutions.

Who is eligible:

• Current CUAET work permit holders

• Those who apply before March 31, 2026

Benefits:

• Maintains your legal status

• Gives you time to build Canadian work experience

• Allows you to continue supporting your family

Important: Extensions are temporary. Use this time to plan your next steps.

Option 2: Apply for Permanent Residency Through Express Entry

For many CUAET holders, the ultimate goal is permanent residency. One of the most popular pathways is Express Entry, particularly the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Key requirements:

• At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)

• Language proficiency in English or French (IELTS or CELPIP)

• Proof of funds (unless currently working in Canada)

Why this works for CUAET holders:

• Many have been working in Canada for over a year

• No job offer required

• Canadian work experience gives valuable CRS points

What to do:

• Confirm your work experience qualifies under the NOC system

• Take an approved language test

• Create an Express Entry profile

• Monitor your CRS score

Option 3: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

If your CRS score isn't high enough for Express Entry, a Provincial Nominee Program may be ideal. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply for PR.

Popular options:

• BC PNP — Skills Immigration stream

• OINP — Skilled workers and in-demand occupations

• AINP — Workers in sectors with labour shortages

What to do:

• Research provinces that align with your skills

• Check eligibility for specific streams

• Submit an application to the province

Elbrus Immigration has expertise with the BC PNP and can guide you through the process.

Option 4: Study Permit and PGWP

Enrolling in a Canadian educational programme can be strategic. A study permit allows you to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), and after completing your programme, you may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Why this works:

• Improves language skills and CRS score

• Canadian credential strengthens job prospects

• PGWP gives additional time to gain work experience

What to do:

• Choose a program at a DLI

• Apply for a study permit before your CUAET permit expires

• Ensure you meet financial requirements

• Verify PGWP eligibility for your chosen program

Elbrus Immigration offers support with school enrollment and study permit applications.

Option 5: Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Applications

If you face unique circumstances that make it difficult to qualify under standard programs, you may be eligible to apply on Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) grounds.

When to consider:

• You don't qualify for Express Entry or PNP

• You have significant establishment in Canada

• Returning to Ukraine would cause serious hardship

Important: H&C applications are complex and require strong evidence. Work with a licensed immigration consultant to build the strongest case.

Take Action Now

Your CUAET work permit gave you the opportunity to build a life in Canada. With the right planning, you can transition to permanent residency and make Canada your home for good.

Act before your permit expires — and remember, CUAET extension applications must be submitted before March 31, 2026.

Whether you're ready to apply for permanent residency, extend your work permit, or explore study options, Elbrus Immigration is here to help. With multilingual support and deep understanding of the challenges Ukrainian newcomers face, we're committed to helping you find the right path forward.

Navigating Canada's immigration system can be complex — but you don't have to do it alone. Book a consultation with Elbrus Immigration Inc. today and let us help you find the right path forward.